Admiring Good People: It’s Cheaper Than Therapy

In a world where everyone is rushing to get ahead, certain traits still manage to stop us in our tracks and make us say, “Wow, I admire that!” Honesty, kindness, empathy, assertiveness, and simply being there for someone – these are not just traits but rare gems in the treasure chest of humanity.

“Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.” These words by Thomas Jefferson capture the essence of why honesty leaves us awestruck. It’s not just about speaking the truth but doing so with courage, even when it’s uncomfortable. There’s something admirable about someone who can own up to their mistakes without blaming Mercury retrograde!

Kindness, oh, that quiet, selfless act that asks for nothing in return! Imagine someone stopping to feed a stray dog or smiling at a stranger having a rough day. That small gesture often leaves ripples of warmth in our hearts. “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted,” said Aesop, and he was right.

Empathy – the unsung hero of human connections – isn’t just about understanding someone’s pain but feeling it with them. It’s like saying, “Hey, I see you, and I’m here for you.” A friend who sits with you in silence during a tough time might be more precious than all the words in the world.

Assertiveness, on the other hand, is the art of standing up for yourself without putting others down. It’s about respecting boundaries – yours and theirs. “The difference between assertive and aggressive is how our words and behavior affect the rights and well-being of others,” reminds Sharon Anthony Bower. An assertive person inspires admiration by showing strength and balance in their actions and words.

And then, there’s the simple magic of being there. You know that person who shows up for you at 2 a.m. when you’re stuck on an emotional rollercoaster? They deserve a gold medal for loyalty.

In the end, what we admire in others reflects what we value most. Be the person whose honesty, kindness, empathy, and assertiveness spark admiration—you never know whose heart you might inspire. People won’t remember the fancy words you said or the grand things you did; they’ll remember how you made them feel.

So, ask yourself: Are you the kind of person someone would admire, not for what you have, but for who you are?